WANDER-bot is an assistive mobile robot developed by Cranfield University, representing the institution’s research into human-centered autonomous mobility assistance. Designed primarily to support visually impaired individuals, the robot combines autonomous navigation with human guidance capabilities in indoor and public environments. Unlike conventional mobility aids, WANDER-bot integrates robotic perception and navigation technologies to provide intelligent route guidance and environmental awareness. Its development reflects broader research trends toward socially assistive robotics and accessible autonomous systems.

FEATURES

Wind-powered
3D-printed
Autonomous navigation
Battery-free operation
Long-duration deployment
Exploration
Environmental monitoring
Data collection
Designed for extreme windy environments
Suitable for planetary analog missions
Assistive guidance
Obstacle avoidance
Human-following capability

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Physical
Weight	N/A
Dimensions	L N/A × W N/A × H N/A
Mobility
Movement Type	Wheeled
Environment	Hostile, windy environments such as dry deserts, frigid polar regions, or planetary surfaces with consistent wind and harsh conditions.
Power
Charging Type	No battery or charging required for movement; powered by wind energy via Savonius turbine. Onboard electronics use smaller power sources.
Sensing & Compute
Software / AI	N/A

Manufacturer-sourcedThird-party sourcedUnsourcedSource status is based on this robot's listed sources.

Videos

WANDER-Bot - A robot locomotion mechanism powered by the wind

1:24

May 19, 2026

Robot Video

WANDER-Bot - A robot locomotion mechanism powered by the wind

Cranfield University

Jjeannifer flag

ROBOT FORUMS

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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Physical
Weight	N/A
Dimensions	L N/A × W N/A × H N/A
Mobility
Movement Type	Wheeled
Environment	Hostile, windy environments such as dry deserts, frigid polar regions, or planetary surfaces with consistent wind and harsh conditions.
Power
Charging Type	No battery or charging required for movement; powered by wind energy via Savonius turbine. Onboard electronics use smaller power sources.
Sensing & Compute
Software / AI	N/A

Manufacturer-sourcedThird-party sourcedUnsourcedSource status is based on this robot's listed sources.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the Assistive Navigation Robot?

WANDER-bot is an assistive mobile robot developed by Cranfield University, representing the institution’s research into human-centered autonomous mobility assistance.